Is Photodynamic Therapy a Good Acne and Rosacea Treatment?

Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) has proven to be an excellent treatment for acne and rosacea. PDT uses a medication called Levulan (aminolevulinic acid) and a light source such as red or blue light to activate the medication. 
photodynamic therapy usually takes 4 treatments at 2 weeks apart. 8 aminolevulinic acid ( Levulan) solution is applied to the skin for 45 minutes then a blue light is applied for 15-20 minutes. It is totally painless and very effective. You do look quite red for 2-3 days but it is so worth it.
pdt photodynamic therapy works in a rather subtle manner. The bacteria that is incriminated as playing a villain role in acne produces a chemical called porphyins. The blue light is attracted to these porphyrins and zaps not only the porphyrins but the nearby bacteria. The 8 amino-levulinic acid is absorbed into the porphyrins and gives the blue light an extra punch. PDT used in this manner is about as effective as a good antibiotic. 
pdt treatment makes acne prone skin better by helping to shrink oil glands, minimizing colonies of bacteria responsible for acne and thereby making conventional acne therapy work even better. Alternating red and blue light for a series of 8 treatments over 4 weeks is effective even without Levulan. Topical retinoids and salicylic acid can be helpful in conjunction with this regimen. Best results are achieves several weeks after the series of treatments.
photodynamic therapy pdt works really well and seems to have lasting effects in many. It can also help with rosacea, and depending on the light source used, can also help with the redness.
Treatments are spaced out a month apart and require 2-3 to make a difference. Staying away from bright light sources, e.g. sunlight, bright indoor lighting, computer screen, would be advisable for the first 48 hours. 
Generally, if other treatments have failed for acne or rosacea, blue light and levulan can be tried with the understanding that it may not work and it is an off label use of an approved treatment.